Tamper-Evident labels

The problems

Tampering

Tampering and manipulation of branded products by malicious actors and fraudsters represent a significant potential risk to the reputation of manufacturing companies. Even though deliberate adulteration of consumer goods has so far been limited (particularly in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic sectors), consumers value and reward products and packaging that protect them against this threat.

Theft

Another aspect of the problem involves the unauthorized opening of packaging or multipacks for theft purposes—an increasingly frequent issue both during distribution (transport or storage) and at the point of sale. These thefts negatively impact retailers, customers, and especially manufacturers, not only in terms of cost but, more importantly, in terms of brand image.

The solutions

To face these issues, Arca Etichette offers the application of security labels to the packaging or directly on the product to make any tampering immediately visible. These so-called tamper-evident labels must adhere permanently to the product and be irreversibly damaged if removed. In essence, their key feature is that removal and repositioning are impossible, ensuring clear evidence of tampering.

Ultra-destructible labels

Made from fragile synthetic or natural materials that tear easily when removed. The more fragile the material, the more effective the label—but also the more challenging it becomes to handle and apply automatically.

Pre-slit labels

These feature a series of cuts on the printed paper or synthetic substrate (similar to Swiss highway vignettes), which facilitate tearing if someone tries to remove them illegally.

Void labels

When removed, they leave part of their coloration on the product, marking it with a standard warning such as “VOID” (indicating tampering), or a custom message. Even if someone tries to overwrite or clean the residue, reapplying the label will reveal the same warning message as a negative image.

Wipe-out labels

This is Arca Etichette’s patented and truly innovative solution against tampering. It consists of a two-layer label:

The top layer is a transparent plastic material
The bottom layer is a destructible material

The plastic top layer ensures easy handling and automatic application. After being applied, the paper layer adheres firmly to the product’s surface. If removal is attempted, destruction is ensured through three simultaneous effects:

The plastic layer peels away from the paper, taking the printed message with it
The underlying layer breaks due to its inherent fragility
Destruction is further ensured by special pre-cuts that span the entire surface of the label, including its edges

Security tapes

Larger surfaces, such as boxes or bulky packages, can also be protected using tamper-evident security tapes, available in Wipe-out and Void variants.